In a major move to reinforce its privacy-first philosophy, IPVanish has begun deploying RAM-only servers across its global network. Unlike traditional VPN servers that rely on physical hard drives, these diskless servers store all data in volatile memory (RAM), which means every time the server is rebooted or powered off, all information is instantly erased. This approach significantly reduces any risk of data persistence, enhancing the provider’s no-logs promise and giving users greater peace of mind.
What Are RAM-Only Servers and Why They Matter
RAM-only servers operate using volatile memory—any data stored there disappears the moment the system is shut down or restarted. This contrasts with traditional HDD (hard disk drive) servers, where data can linger, potentially leaving traces of user connections or activity. IPVanish’s adoption of RAM-only infrastructure means:
No persistent user data remains once a server restarts.
Even in the event of a physical seizure or compromise, there’s virtually no recoverable data.
The server environment can be rebuilt from a clean, read-only image, making it more secure and auditable.
These changes support a “privacy by design” ethos. When servers reboot regularly, any session history, metadata, or identifying information vanishes — strengthening the no-logs guarantee not just in policy but in infrastructure.
IPVanish’s Rollout Plan
IPVanish is not just experimenting; it’s executing a multi-year strategy to convert its entire server fleet. Here’s what the rollout looks like now and in the future:
Initial deployment: RAM-only servers are now live in 19 cities across 9 countries, including Australia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the U.S.
Platform availability: Currently, users on iOS and macOS apps can connect to these RAM-only servers. Support for Windows and Android is expected by the end of 2025, while Apple TV and Fire TV will get RAM-only server access in early 2026.
Full infrastructure transition: IPVanish plans to migrate all its 148 locations to RAM-only servers by 2027.
This phased rollout allows IPVanish to maintain service continuity while progressively upgrading its privacy infrastructure.
Privacy Benefits & Security Implications
The shift to RAM-only servers has several significant security and privacy benefits:
True no-logs by design
Because RAM doesn’t retain data after power loss, there’s no persistent record of user activity. IPVanish explicitly states that no metadata, logs, or identifying information remain on the server.
Reduced risk in data seizure
If a server is physically compromised, attackers won’t find historical data stored on disks. This is a strong protection, especially for high-risk users.
More durable infrastructure
Servers without spinning disks are more robust and easier to maintain. They often generate less heat and have fewer moving parts, which improves reliability and lowers maintenance complexity.
Faster updates and deployment
Because RAM-only servers are rebuilt from read-only images, IPVanish can roll out updates or patch servers more quickly and securely.
Supporting Privacy: Audit, Transparency & More
This infrastructure upgrade complements IPVanish’s broader privacy commitments:
Independent audit: In April 2025, cybersecurity firm Schellman Compliance confirmed IPVanish does not log user data.
Transparency: IPVanish launched a Trust Center where users can view its transparency reports, audit documents, and infrastructure details.
Minimal signup data: As part of its privacy push, IPVanish reduced the amount of personal information required during account creation.
These steps show IPVanish isn’t just talking about privacy — it’s building systems and processes to back up its claims.
How IPVanish’s RAM-Only Move Compares to Competitors
IPVanish isn’t alone in adopting RAM-only architecture. Other leading VPNs have already embraced diskless or similar designs:
ExpressVPN: Uses TrustedServer technology, which runs entirely on RAM.
NordVPN: Also offers RAM-only options and is transitioning parts of its network to volatile memory.
On the other hand, ProtonVPN chooses a different privacy model: instead of full RAM-only infrastructure, it relies on full-disk encryption and strict no-logs policies.
By moving to RAM-only servers, IPVanish is aligning more closely with the most privacy-conscious players in the VPN industry.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Latency for reboot cycles: While RAM-only servers offer strong privacy, frequent rebooting could temporarily affect availability or performance if not carefully managed.
User-side access: Not everyone can connect to the RAM-only servers yet; Windows and Android users must wait for full rollout.
Threat model limits: RAM-only protects against data persistence, but it doesn’t necessarily prevent all types of active attacks (e.g., real-time monitoring). Users with very high-risk profiles should assess their threat models carefully and combine VPNs with other protections.
Conclusion
IPVanish’s deployment of RAM-only servers represents a major leap forward in infrastructure-based privacy. By storing all data in volatile memory and ensuring it’s wiped clean on every reboot, IPVanish significantly raises its privacy guarantee — not just in policy but in engineering. The ongoing rollout, set to complete by 2027, aims to cover its entire global network, positioning the service among the most privacy-serious VPNs on the market.
For users who value strong no-logs assurances, the ability to connect to RAM-only servers gives an extra layer of protection. And with IPVanish complementing this with independent audits and transparency reports, it’s clear the company is serious about accountability.
